The Ultimate Guide to Preparing for Your Floral Consultation
Your wedding flowers play a significant role in bringing your vision to life, but preparing for a floral consultation can feel a bit overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. The key is to come equipped with the right details and an open mind, so your florist can create a proposal that reflects your style and meets your needs. Here’s how to make the most of your consultation:
1. Know your budget
Flowers typically account for 10-15% of your overall wedding budget. Having a clear idea of what you’re comfortable spending helps your florist guide you toward options that fit within your financial plan. If you’re unsure, don’t worry—your florist can help you understand what’s possible within different price ranges. The budget is one of the hardest parts! A simplified explanation is that $5,000 - $7,000 can usually get you the flowers you need. $7,000 - $10,000 may get you the flowers you want. And over $10,000 may be able to achieve the flowers you dream of!
2. determine your color palette
Your color palette sets the tone for your floral design. Without this crucial detail, it’s difficult for your florist to craft a proposal. Whether your colors are soft and romantic, bold and vibrant, or somewhere in between, having this information ready will save time and ensure the flowers complement your overall wedding aesthetic.
3. know your guest count
Your guest count influences the number of centerpieces and other floral arrangements needed. Even an estimated number can help your florist plan appropriately for your big day.
4. consider flower preferences
If you have flowers you love or ones you’d rather avoid, share this with your florist. However, it’s perfectly fine not to know! Flexibility allows your florist to explore the best seasonal and color options to achieve the look you desire.
5. bring visual inspiration
One of the most important things you can bring to your consultation is visual inspiration. Descriptions can vary, and what you picture as “boho” or “elegant” may differ from your florist’s interpretation.
Share a Pinterest board link or a few photos of arrangements you love.
Optional: Bring inspiration for specific elements like bouquets, centerpieces, and ceremony arches.
Optional: Include photos of your bridesmaid dresses and groomsmen's attire to help tie the floral design into the overall design.
6. choose the right meeting format
While we’re happy to meet in person, we recommend that your first consultation take place over video. This format is ideal for sharing ideas and discussing your vision without the pressure of making decisions on the spot. Later, during your final meeting, you can visit our shop to view vases and other decor elements.
7. Understand Specialty Flowers
Every wedding is unique, and so are the flowers we order for your event. Your flowers are specialty ordered and arrive just a few days before your wedding, so you won’t see the actual blooms until your big day unless you opt for a mock-up. To help you feel confident in your choices, our proposals are incredibly detailed, featuring photos, descriptions, and pricing for each item.
8. be open to ideas
Your consultation is a collaborative experience. While having a vision is helpful, being open to suggestions can lead to creative solutions that align with your style and budget. Your florist is there to guide you through the process and bring fresh ideas to the table.
9. enjoy the process
Your floral consultation is an exciting step in the wedding planning journey. It’s your chance to explore possibilities and watch your vision come to life. Trust your florist to help you navigate the options and create something truly special for your big day.
By coming prepared with these details, you’ll set the stage for a successful consultation and stunning wedding flowers that perfectly capture your style. Happy planning!
